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A U.S. government shutdown began a shutdown on October 1, 2025, but the Department of Transportation released its operational plan.
The U.S. government shutdown began on October 1, 2025, due to a lack of funding agreement between Congress and the White House. The shutdown, which would affect a large portion of the public administration, could last indefinitely, as a solution has yet to be determined.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, around 750,000 federal workers would be suspended if no agreement is reached. Among them are more than 12,000 employees from the Department of Transportation (DOT), who could face job disruptions if the shutdown proceeds.
Department of Transportation action plan for government shutdown
On September 30, the Department of Transportation released its operational plan in the event of a shutdown. Although a significant portion of its staff will be affected, certain sectors and agencies within the DOT will be able to continue their normal operations since they are funded by sources other than annual appropriations.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), responsible for regulating the road transportation industry, will not be severely impacted, according to the DOT. With 1,084 employees, 21 of whom will be inactive under the Deferred Compensation Program, the agency will continue operating with funds from the Highway Trust Fund. Additionally, its ability to continue functioning during the shutdown is supported by resources obtained from licensing fees, insurance, and other transportation safety-related programs.
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), which has 2,268 employees on duty, will also remain unaffected and continue with its normal operations, with no anticipated furloughs. This agency, which oversees road infrastructure projects, has sufficient resources to fund reimbursements to states for several months.
Finally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), responsible for vehicle safety, will also continue its activities. Its 574 employees will remain on the job, with funding guaranteed by existing funds and the Highway Trust Fund.
Impact on other transportation sectors
While road transportation and infrastructure sectors are relatively protected, other areas of the DOT will experience deeper cuts:
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): More than 11,000 employees will be furloughed, although air traffic controllers will continue to work without pay. Ground inspections will continue, but licenses and other programs will be severely impacted.
- Federal Railroad Administration (FRA): Similar to the FAA, the FRA will continue accident investigations and inspections, but other regulatory and research functions will be suspended. However, programs funded by multi-year appropriations will continue without interruption.
How long will the shutdown last?
This new government shutdown could last several days or even weeks, depending on whether Congress and the White House can reach an agreement on the budget. The lack of funding affects not only federal workers but also the operations of key agencies that ensure the safety and functionality of the country’s transportation infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation assures that vital functions, particularly those that protect life and property, will continue as normal.
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